We show you 5 tricks for the washing machine that do work and another 5 that don’t

August 24, 2025 by admin

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**Tip:** Also great for keeping socks from disappearing!

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### **4. Pre-Treat with Dish Soap for Greasy Stains**

**Why it works:** Dish soap is formulated to cut grease, making it surprisingly effective on oily food stains or makeup smudges.

**How to do it:** Dab a small amount on the stain, rub gently, and wash as usual.

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### **5. Leave the Door Open After Washing**

**Why it works:** Prevents mold and mildew by allowing moisture to evaporate. A closed machine stays damp and musty—no thank you.

**Bonus:** Wipe the rubber seal regularly to avoid mold buildup there, too.

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### ❌ **5 Washing Machine “Tricks” That *Don’t* Work (or Can Cause Damage)**

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### **1. Overloading the Machine Saves Time and Water**

**The truth:** Overloading reduces cleaning efficiency and strains the motor and drum. Clothes won’t wash or rinse properly—and your machine may wear out faster.

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### **2. Using Too Much Detergent = Cleaner Clothes**

**The truth:** More detergent can leave residue on clothes and inside your washer, leading to buildup, odor, and even machine damage.

**Stick to the recommended amount**—less is often more!

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### **3. Bleach Cleans Everything**

**The truth:** While bleach disinfects, it’s too harsh for many fabrics and can corrode your washer’s internal parts over time if used excessively.

**Use it sparingly**, and only when truly necessary.

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### **4. Laundry Pods Go Directly Into the Detergent Drawer**

**The truth:** Pods should go *into the drum*, not the drawer. Placing them in the drawer can clog the compartment and reduce pod effectiveness.

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### **5. Hot Water Is Best for Every Load**

**The truth:** Hot water can shrink, fade, or damage delicate fabrics. It’s also more energy-intensive.

**Use cold water** for most loads unless you’re dealing with heavy stains, whites, or bedding.

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## 🧺 **Final Thoughts: Wash Smart, Not Just Hard**

Laundry doesn’t have to be complicated, but knowing what actually works—and what’s just a laundry room myth—can save you time, money, and frustration. Stick with the proven tricks, skip the gimmicks, and your washing machine will thank you with years of clean, fresh clothes.

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Want more laundry hacks, DIY stain removers, or tips to extend your machine’s life? Just ask—I’ve got a load of clean ideas ready for you!